Foster + Partners unveil plans for a pair of hurricane-resistant high rises in Miami

Foster + Partners just unveiled plans for the tallest buildings south of Manhattan – an elegant pair of hurricane-resistant high rises designed to integrate within Miami’s dynamic urban fabric. Instead of creating a closed volume at ground level, the architects envisioned the podium as a public space wrapped with retail and housing units.

The SE 12th Street project comprises two interconnected towers made from reinforced concrete. That choice was made to provide shade for apartments while also maximizing daylight. Special strategically-positioned louvers that mitigate the effects of high winds can also be lowered over the central plaza to function as wind breakers. Thanks to the presence of beams that brace the two structures together, the development can withstand hurricanes.

Related: Foster + Partners’ China Resources University opens in Shenzhen

“We share the city of Miami’s vision for increased urban density, and the design of these high-rise towers frees up space on the ground to create a public plaza, with shops, restaurants and art galleries that will serve the local community as well as the new residents in the tower,” said Norman Foster, Chairman and Founder of Foster + Partners. “The base of the building continues the axis of SE 12th Street, drawing life back to the bay.”